Beaches and Pools

Testing Beach Water

During the summer, public health inspectors sample the public beach water to test for E. coli.

Water quality is affected by rainfall, wave action, water and air temperatures, water fowl, storm water outflows, industrial waste discharges, septic system discharges, and agricultural runoff.

You can't tell by looking at the water if it has E. coli. If the water has high levels of bacteria, you may get ear, nose, eye, and throat irritations, and stomach disorders.

If you or someone you know is ill after swimming at a public beach or complains of swimmer's itch, please call the Health Unit at 705-474-1400 or 1-800-563-2808.

Beach status

The beach water quality testing has ended for the season, should you have any questions, please call us at 705-474-1400 or 1-800-563-2808. Email: environmental.health@healthunit.ca.

What are the signs?

Unsafe for swimming

This means E. coli bacteria levels are high. It is not safe to swim in the water

Rainfall warning

For 48 hours after a heavy rainfall, the E. coli levels may increase. Stay out of the water after it rains.

Swimmer's itch

This sign means swimmer's itch can be a problem at this beach.

Swimmer's itch may be found in some lakes during the warm swimming season (July, August). The itch is a reaction to a parasite in the water that causes a rash. Swimmer's itch is not a public health risk. Most cases of swimmer's itch do not require medical attention.

Blue-green algae

Toxin forming algae has been found at this location. It is not recommended to swim or allow pets to enter the water at this time.